News

New Customs Regulations in Argentina

April 19, 2011

Effective immediately, Argentine Customs has extended its mandatory 100% customs inspections to include all export and import shipments. Prior to this date, only export shipments were affected. This procedural change was first implemented in July 2010 as a result of illegal drugs being confiscated from an international household goods shipment.

The intensive physical exams will be performed in a bonded warehouse. Once the shipment has undergone a thorough physical inspection, it will be forwarded to the seaport where it will be X-rayed. If an X-ray scanner is not available, narcotics detection dogs will be used. Should anything appear suspicious, the shipment will undergo another physical inspection.

Consequently, delays are inevitable and additional charges will be assessed. Argentina Customs will not provide itemized receipts for inspection costs incurred, rather they will provide your destination agent with a fixed cost summary under the heading “Customs Inspection.” The estimated additional charges for import shipments are:

LCL USD $600.00 (minimum)

1X20 USD $800.00

1X40 USD $1,000.00

1x40 HC USD $1,200.00

If you have any questions, please contact your local Arpin International office.